Champions Trophy 2025 / Michael Clarke's big prediction, called India the biggest contender to win CT

Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is going to be hosted by Pakistan from February 19. The matches of this prestigious tournament will be played in three cities of Pakistan as well as Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Indian cricket team left for Dubai on February 15, where it has to face Bangladesh on February 20 in its first match. However, this time the Indian team will take the field without its star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, which is considered a big setback.

Michael Clarke called India the biggest contender

Former Australia captain and 2015 ODI World Cup winner Michael Clarke has described the Indian team as a strong contender to win the title ahead of the Champions Trophy. He said in the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast that Bumrah's absence is definitely a big setback for Team India, but despite this, India's title claim remains strong. Referring to the good form of Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma, Clarke said that both these batsmen have the ability to lead the team to victory in any situation.

Hardik Pandya can become the X-factor

Michael Clarke described Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the X-factor of Team India. He said that Pandya has proven his ability in big matches and his contribution can prove to be important for India's success. His experience and all-round ability in limited overs cricket can play a decisive role for the team.

India's schedule and great match against Pakistan

The Indian team is in Group-A and will play against Bangladesh on February 20 in its first match. This will be followed by the much-awaited match against Pakistan on February 23, which is considered to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. The Indian team will play its last group match against New Zealand on March 2.

All India's matches will be held in Dubai

Team India will play all its matches at the Dubai International Stadium. If the Indian team reaches the final, it will also have to play the title match on this ground. All matches will start at 2:30 pm Indian time.

Conclusion

The Indian team will definitely miss Jasprit Bumrah in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but with a strong batting order and an all-rounder like Hardik Pandya, the team is still a strong contender for the title. The opinion of veterans like Michael Clarke also indicates that Team India can prove to be dangerous in this tournament. Now it will be interesting to see how India overcomes this challenge and whether it is able to win another ICC trophy.